Sunset for MiG 21s as squadron retires fighters after 57 years

New Delhi: An Indian Air Force squadron that started operating MiG 21 fighter jets in 1966 has finally retired the aircraft, replacing them with Su 30MKIs that are manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

The IAF's Uttarlai (Rajasthan) based 4 Squadron has been operating various types of MiG 21 for 57 years and was one of the last three remaining units operating the Bison version of the aircraft. The two remaining MiG 21 Bison squadrons are expected to phase out the fighters by 2025.

"The MiG 21 squadron has served the country for approximately six decades and has significantly contributed to the war effort during Indo-Pak conflicts. The squadron known as 'OORIALS' has been operating the MiG 21 since 1966 and is now being re-equipped with the Sukhoi 30 MKI aircraft," an air force spokesperson said.


Once the mainstay of the Air Force, MiG 21s have been gradually phased out after extended service, during which the fleet was marred by a high accident rate. India operated 840 MiG 21 fighters over almost six decades, which included several versions, with the last being the Bison variant.

"Few air arms, let alone squadrons, operate the same family of aircraft for six decades. As long-lived as the MiG 21 has been in IAF service, the number-plating of 51 Squadron in Srinagar last year, and the transition of 4 Squadron to Su 30MKIs this month are signs that the IAF recognises the need to sunset obsolescent types in favour of contemporary aircraft, even though it is short of combat squadrons - they are down to 31 or so against a sanctioned 42," aviation expert Angad Singh said.

The IAF's squadron strength has been steadily declining over the past two decades as replacement rate for fighters has not met with retirements. The MiG 21 fleet is being broadly replaced by indigenous Light Combat Aircraft. The Air Force has ordered 83 of the Mk1A version of the jets, with deliveries expected to start by mid-2024. It has also moved a case for 97 additional LCA Mk1A jets that will be inducted over the next decade.